Be on the lookout for scammers impersonating First Interstate customer service.
Using a sophisticated cyber deception called vishing or caller ID fraud, fraudsters can fake caller ID to make it look like you are receiving a call from your bank. The phone number looks real, but it is not. The gist of the scam is that someone pretending to be a representative from First Interstate tells you that there has been fraudulent activity on your account, and to stop it, you need to disclose your contact information, username, password, account numbers, and card details to the scammer. Then, your private information is used for unauthorized transactions.
The best way to avoid this scam is to know what to look for. Here’s how it unfolds:
- It starts with a phone call from a scammer using a number that appears to be from a First Interstate branch. The scammer may even tell you to “look up the number online to confirm it’s First Interstate.” Remember, the criminal is using technology to fake the phone number.
- The scammer pretends to be a First Interstate employee and offers to stop the alleged fraud by directing you to share confidential information. Banks never ask that!
- In reality, the scammer is tricking you into giving them access to your bank account.
Staying safe in a world of scammers
How can you avoid being tricked? Always keep these tips front of mind:
- First Interstate has a policy of NEVER reaching out to clients by email, text, or phone call and asking for personal financial information such as account numbers, passwords, one-time login code, balances, PINs, or debit/credit card information.
- If you didn't initiate the phone call, hang up. It’s better to be rude than to be the victim of a financial crime.
- Call the number on the back of your debit or credit card or dial the First Interstate Client Contact Center at 855-342-3400.
- Don't call any phone number in a text, email, or voicemail. It will connect you directly with the scammers.
- Do not respond to text messages. Don't click on links from people you don't know, even if it’s pretending to be your bank, credit card, or money transfer app. These links can be deceiving and direct you to a fake site or expose your device to malware.
Better safe than sorry
Visit our Safety and Security section to understand what is risky, and check out our Fake Phone Numbers, Real Risk flier for pointers on avoiding caller ID fraud. If you received a questionable call, text, email, or cash app request, report suspicious activity immediately. You can also follow #BanksNeverAskThat on social media for quick tips.